T.V. Dinners
I had to think about this particular blog for quite a while before I dared write it. See, I have not been a Christian for so long that I understand all of the intricacies involved in using the correct terms, comprehending doctrines, and whose camp I should be in. My philosophy has been to take the pieces I understand as coming from the heart of Christ and going from there. I do not necessarily choose to embrace or condemn all of what anyone believes; after all, they are not God.
With that being said, I had planned on writing about T.V. dinners tonight. While I work during the day, I mull over my thoughts and I pray some, and by the time I am ready to write at night, my thoughts are cohesive enough to put on paper.
However, the sudden death of Jerry Falwell made me stop and think about something else. I heard the news from a conservative radio host, who said to watch and see how Falwell was eulogized by the media. Well, he was right. They kept using the word ‘fundamentalist’ and then they would talk about his accusation of a certain Tellytubbie being gay. Well, even I knew more about him than that.
Anyway, the way they were using the word fundamentalist bothered me. What about that word seemed to make people cringe? I turned to my handy online dictionaries at Merriam-Webster and Encarta for the answers. Here are some of my results.
5. belonging to one's innate or ingrained characteristics
1 a often capitalized: a movement in 20th century Protestantism emphasizing the literally interpreted Bible as fundamental to Christian life and teaching b: the beliefs of this movement c: adherence to such beliefs
2: a movement or attitude stressing strict and literal adherence to a set of basic principles
1. movement with strict view of doctrine: a religious or political movement based on a literal interpretation of and strict adherence to doctrine, especially as a return to former principles
2. support for literal explanation: the belief that religious or political doctrine should be implemented literally, not interpreted or adapted
This goes back to my original blog for tonight. People have gravitated from home-cooked meals to fast, quick, easy meals on the go. Why? Because we are always moving on to our next tasks, have to get to the next thing.
I fear that model has crept into our religion as well. We seek out God to solve our problems, line our pockets, and basically make our lives easier. At least I have a tendency to do that. Sure, I praise God on the good days. Nevertheless, I make sure I seek Him on the days things are not going well.
But how often am I seeking His heart? How often am I concerned for His well? And, how long do I pound on His door after I do not get an immediate answer that I seek? Have I condemned the world to a collision course to hell because of events I see on a daily basis?
Which returns me to the word fundamental. When did that become a bad word? Sure, Jerry Falwell said some things that were harsh on the ears. Even he admitted to making some mistakes in his life; things he wished he had not said. But why throw out the word whose definition describes how we should be on a daily basis.
Maybe we should spend less time focusing on things we cannot know on this side of heaven, and focus on the fundamentals we know to be true. How about literally interpreting Jesus commanded us to do? And, rather than interpreting God’s word to coddle everyone’s ears, we stick to the truth that we know?
So, to celebrate the word ‘fundamental,’ let us feast on the words of Jesus. And remember that being a fundamentalist is not necessarily a curse. Rather, let us focus on the bountiful feast that God’s word provides us. And may we all seek to be a fundamental light of the truth in a world that desperately needs it.
“Staying with it-that’s what God requires. Stay with it to the end. You won’t be sorry, and you’ll be saved.” Matthew 24.13
“Listen carefully to what I am saying-and be wary of the shrewd advice that tells you how to get ahead in the world on your own. Giving, not getting, is the way. Generosity begets generosity. Stinginess impoverishes.” Mark 4.24-25
“I’m telling you, once and for all, that unless you return to square one and start over like children, you’re not even going to get a look at the kingdom, let alone get in. Whoever becomes simple and elemental again, like this child, will rank high in God’s kingdom. What’s more, when you receive the childlike on my account, it’s the same as receiving me.” Matthew 18.2-5
“Stand up for me against world opinion and I’ll stand up for you before my Father in heaven.” Matthew 10.23
Jesus was asked which commandment was the most important. His answer?
“The first in importance is, ‘Listen, Israel: The Lord your God is one; so love the Lord God with all your passion and prayer and intelligence and energy.’ And here is the second: Love others as well as you love yourself.’ There is no other commandment that ranks with these.” Mark 12.29-31
(All verses are quoted from The Message.)
Wednesday, May 16, 2007
Friday, April 27, 2007
The search for friend
From the Merriam-Webster dictionary-
1: one attached to another by affection or esteem
2 a: one that is not hostile b: one that is of the same nation, party, or group4: a favored companion
From MSN Encarta-
3. ally: an ally, or somebody who is not an enemy
4. advocate of cause: a defender or supporter of a cause, group, or principle
I have been prone to bouts of solitude lately. Maybe you know the type; when you listen to the phone ring but you cannot muster up the energy to answer it. Anyway, that is where I have been at for what seems like forever. If I do talk with someone, it seems like it taps me dry.
At work, I have taken to wearing my headphones. I like to pretend like it’s to keep a happy tune in my head, but I am starting to believe that it is actually an isolation unit.
I have started getting aggravated when my husband asks me questions that I think he should know the answer to. Especially if the answer requires more than a one or two word answer.
I was starting to erect a large wall between God and myself before I went to an all-day prayer conference. It was there that I cried out to Him and begged for my self-inflicted isolation to crumble away.
After that, I was at least willing to talk to Him on a semi-regular basis. Within a matter of days, I received some horrible news that would completely rock my world. I will not go into it here. I will just say it was a ‘10’ on a scale of one to five.
I was sitting in the parking lot at work contemplating my next move. My head cried ‘retreat’ but my heart cried for attention and compassion. I let my heart win. I picked up my cell phone before I could change my mind and I reached out for a friend. I thought I would just have a general, generic call, but when she asked me how I was doing, the word ‘horrible’ spilled out.
Immediately, empathy poured out of her and it caused me to unload all I was carrying around. She listened, encouraged me to keep talking; until I had emptied myself of all the emotional baggage I had been carrying.
We then were able to move on to a conversation about Jesus, a conversation it turns out, that we both needed. I ended up feeling better than I had in weeks. We got together the next week and continued our conversation, which was just really good.
“A (wo)man of many companions may come to ruin, but there is a friend who sticks closer than a (sister) brother.” Proverbs 18.24
“Greater love has no one than this, that he lay down his life for his friends. You are my friends if you do what I command.” –Jesus in John 15.13-14
See, I do not think Jesus just meant His life, although that was His most important mission. I believe that when we take time out to truly listen to a friend, that you stop what you are doing, then you are also laying down your life. Jesus realized we were not meant to be alone. Even He did not want to be alone, and He was the Son of God.
I think Jesus showed us His emotional side when many of the people following Him decided His teachings were too tough and left Him. He asked His twelve disciples, “You do not want to leave too, do you?” Did He not want to be alone? I do not think He did.
On the night Jesus was betrayed, He went to pray to His Father. He took His disciples with Him, and asked them to stay there and watch. When He came back, they were sleeping. He asked them, “are you asleep? Could you not keep watch for one hour?” In Jesus’ time of need, when He was ‘deeply distressed and troubled, He needed to know He had friends around to support and care for Him.
We were not made to be solitary creatures. Unfortunately, in our day of email, cell phones and computers, we are capable of insulating ourselves from the world at hand. Nevertheless, it is frightening, and can even be dangerous.
The way I see it today is, if Jesus can be open about His needs and emotions, there is no reason I cannot too. And that is good enough for today.
From the Merriam-Webster dictionary-
1: one attached to another by affection or esteem
2 a: one that is not hostile b: one that is of the same nation, party, or group4: a favored companion
From MSN Encarta-
3. ally: an ally, or somebody who is not an enemy
4. advocate of cause: a defender or supporter of a cause, group, or principle
I have been prone to bouts of solitude lately. Maybe you know the type; when you listen to the phone ring but you cannot muster up the energy to answer it. Anyway, that is where I have been at for what seems like forever. If I do talk with someone, it seems like it taps me dry.
At work, I have taken to wearing my headphones. I like to pretend like it’s to keep a happy tune in my head, but I am starting to believe that it is actually an isolation unit.
I have started getting aggravated when my husband asks me questions that I think he should know the answer to. Especially if the answer requires more than a one or two word answer.
I was starting to erect a large wall between God and myself before I went to an all-day prayer conference. It was there that I cried out to Him and begged for my self-inflicted isolation to crumble away.
After that, I was at least willing to talk to Him on a semi-regular basis. Within a matter of days, I received some horrible news that would completely rock my world. I will not go into it here. I will just say it was a ‘10’ on a scale of one to five.
I was sitting in the parking lot at work contemplating my next move. My head cried ‘retreat’ but my heart cried for attention and compassion. I let my heart win. I picked up my cell phone before I could change my mind and I reached out for a friend. I thought I would just have a general, generic call, but when she asked me how I was doing, the word ‘horrible’ spilled out.
Immediately, empathy poured out of her and it caused me to unload all I was carrying around. She listened, encouraged me to keep talking; until I had emptied myself of all the emotional baggage I had been carrying.
We then were able to move on to a conversation about Jesus, a conversation it turns out, that we both needed. I ended up feeling better than I had in weeks. We got together the next week and continued our conversation, which was just really good.
“A (wo)man of many companions may come to ruin, but there is a friend who sticks closer than a (sister) brother.” Proverbs 18.24
“Greater love has no one than this, that he lay down his life for his friends. You are my friends if you do what I command.” –Jesus in John 15.13-14
See, I do not think Jesus just meant His life, although that was His most important mission. I believe that when we take time out to truly listen to a friend, that you stop what you are doing, then you are also laying down your life. Jesus realized we were not meant to be alone. Even He did not want to be alone, and He was the Son of God.
I think Jesus showed us His emotional side when many of the people following Him decided His teachings were too tough and left Him. He asked His twelve disciples, “You do not want to leave too, do you?” Did He not want to be alone? I do not think He did.
On the night Jesus was betrayed, He went to pray to His Father. He took His disciples with Him, and asked them to stay there and watch. When He came back, they were sleeping. He asked them, “are you asleep? Could you not keep watch for one hour?” In Jesus’ time of need, when He was ‘deeply distressed and troubled, He needed to know He had friends around to support and care for Him.
We were not made to be solitary creatures. Unfortunately, in our day of email, cell phones and computers, we are capable of insulating ourselves from the world at hand. Nevertheless, it is frightening, and can even be dangerous.
The way I see it today is, if Jesus can be open about His needs and emotions, there is no reason I cannot too. And that is good enough for today.
Saturday, April 07, 2007
Thank you God, for sending your Son to rescue us. May we all recognize and rejoice his resurrection this New Passover Sunday.
O come, O come, Emmanuel,
And ransom captive Israel,
That mourns in lonely exile here
Until the Son of God appear.
Rejoice! Rejoice!
Emmanuel shall come to thee, O Israel.
O come, Thou Wisdom from on high,
Who orderest all things mightily;
To us the path of knowledge show,
And teach us in her ways to go.
Rejoice! Rejoice!
Emmanuel shall come to thee, O Israel
O come, Thou Rod of Jesse, free
Thine own from Satan’s tyranny;
From depths of hell Thy people save,
And give them victory over the grave.
Rejoice! Rejoice!
Emmanuel shall come to thee, O Israel
O come, Thou Day-spring, come and cheer
Our spirits by Thine advent here;
Disperse the gloomy clouds of night,
And death’s dark shadows put to flight.
Rejoice! Rejoice!
Emmanuel shall come to thee, O Israel
O come, Thou Key of David, come,
And open wide our heavenly home;
Make safe the way that leads on high,
And close the path to misery.
Rejoice! Rejoice!
Emmanuel shall come to thee, O Israel
O come, O come, great Lord of might,
Who to Thy tribes on Sinai’s height
In ancient times once gave the law
In cloud and majesty and awe.
Rejoice! Rejoice!
Emmanuel shall come to thee, O Israel
O come, Thou Root of Jesse’s tree,
An ensign of Thy people be;
Before Thee rulers silent fall;
All peoples on Thy mercy call.
Rejoice! Rejoice!
Emmanuel shall come to thee, O Israel
O come, Desire of nations, bind
In one the hearts of all mankind;
Bid Thou our sad divisions cease,
And be Thyself our King of Peace.
Rejoice! Rejoice!
Emmanuel shall come to thee, O Israel
O come, O come, Emmanuel,
And ransom captive Israel,
That mourns in lonely exile here
Until the Son of God appear.
Rejoice! Rejoice!
Emmanuel shall come to thee, O Israel.
O come, Thou Wisdom from on high,
Who orderest all things mightily;
To us the path of knowledge show,
And teach us in her ways to go.
Rejoice! Rejoice!
Emmanuel shall come to thee, O Israel
O come, Thou Rod of Jesse, free
Thine own from Satan’s tyranny;
From depths of hell Thy people save,
And give them victory over the grave.
Rejoice! Rejoice!
Emmanuel shall come to thee, O Israel
O come, Thou Day-spring, come and cheer
Our spirits by Thine advent here;
Disperse the gloomy clouds of night,
And death’s dark shadows put to flight.
Rejoice! Rejoice!
Emmanuel shall come to thee, O Israel
O come, Thou Key of David, come,
And open wide our heavenly home;
Make safe the way that leads on high,
And close the path to misery.
Rejoice! Rejoice!
Emmanuel shall come to thee, O Israel
O come, O come, great Lord of might,
Who to Thy tribes on Sinai’s height
In ancient times once gave the law
In cloud and majesty and awe.
Rejoice! Rejoice!
Emmanuel shall come to thee, O Israel
O come, Thou Root of Jesse’s tree,
An ensign of Thy people be;
Before Thee rulers silent fall;
All peoples on Thy mercy call.
Rejoice! Rejoice!
Emmanuel shall come to thee, O Israel
O come, Desire of nations, bind
In one the hearts of all mankind;
Bid Thou our sad divisions cease,
And be Thyself our King of Peace.
Rejoice! Rejoice!
Emmanuel shall come to thee, O Israel
Wednesday, March 28, 2007
WILL- verb
From the Merriam-Webster dictionary:
1. used to express desire, choice, willingness, consent
2. used to express frequent, customary, or habitual action or natural tendency or disposition
4. used to express capability or sufficiency
6. used to express determination, insistence, persistence, or willfulness
“If you then, though you are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father in heaven give good gifts to those who ask Him!” Matthew 7.11
The man with leprosy
“A man came and knelt before [Jesus] and said, ‘Lord, if you are willing, you can make me clean.’
Jesus reached out his hand and touched the man. ‘I am willing’ he said. ‘Be clean!’ Immediately he was cured of his leprosy.” Matthew 8.2-3
God gave me the first scripture verse this morning. I decided to go on a prayer retreat. I figured this would be my last attempt at salvaging my relationship with Him. See, I am currently a shell of the woman I was three months ago. Three months ago I was in graduate school, I was deacon of Women’s Ministry at my church, and I taught a new believers class. I felt that spiritually, I was at the top of my game.
Apparently not. As you may or may not know, I had a stroke in December. I was in a coma for a length of time, and went through a long series of physical therapies to regain my strength.
And here is where the dilemma arose. When I returned to church, I started hearing phrases like, ‘Well here’s our walking miracle.’ And ‘This event really strengthened my faith.’ But I felt nothing. No walks in heaven when I was in the coma and no deep spiritual awakening when I woke up.
It took a very wise woman to say, ‘Maybe this wasn’t about you. Maybe God is working through you.’ Ouch. That had never occurred to me. Unfortunately, that revelation did not spark a renewed desire to speak to God, or to go into His word. I remained an island unto myself. I retreated into a corner to lick my wounds. To avoid spiritual small talk, I started ignoring people. I would walk into church with my head down.
God had effectively stripped away all the good things I was doing for Him. I had not even realized how all my thoughts and desires for God was stemming from my head and not my heart. Now I was naked with nothing to show for my efforts.
Now, back to today’s story. At the retreat, we gathered in a room to discuss the day’s plan. We would go somewhere where we could meet God in the stillness of ourselves. Scripture reading, journaling, even drawing was suggested methods of connecting with Him. As I was leaving the classroom to start my retreat, I heard ‘Matthew 7.11’ in my head. It was quite audible. I was convinced it was I doing the thinking, and I tried not to get my hopes up. I thought, ‘I’m sure it’s some passage like, ‘Jesus was out walking the streets.’
When I read the verse, the word ‘will’ spoke to my heart. Immediately I thought about will being a word to describe the action of willingness to do something. You have to be willing in order to give. Otherwise, it is forcing as the action. This passage tells me that God is willing to be an active force in my life. He has the natural tendency and the sufficiency to meet me right where I am. And He is extremely capable and persistent at pursuing me even when I avoid Him.
So, my next thought is, What am I willing to give Him in return? Can I really trust Him with my heart? Trust Him to take away all the hurts inflicted by those who abused me and those who were complacent abandoners? Am I willing to trust that He is right beside me every step of the way? Most importantly, can I be willing to hand over the pain so that He might seek vengeance for me? Can I dare take a chance to believe He will not be another one who has let me down?
The writer Henri Nouwen said, “Faith is the radical trust that home has always been there and always will be there.” Am I willing to abandon my service for my love?
“Restore to me the joy of your salvation and grant me a willing spirit, to sustain me.” Psalm 51.12
“If anyone is (willing) chooses to do God’s will, he will find out whether my teaching comes from God or whether I speak on my own.” John 7.17
And I finish for now with the word of the great Saint Augustine; “Understanding is the reward of faith…What is, ‘If any man be willing to do His will?’ It is the same thing as to believe.
From the Merriam-Webster dictionary:
1. used to express desire, choice, willingness, consent
2. used to express frequent, customary, or habitual action or natural tendency or disposition
4. used to express capability or sufficiency
6. used to express determination, insistence, persistence, or willfulness
“If you then, though you are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father in heaven give good gifts to those who ask Him!” Matthew 7.11
The man with leprosy
“A man came and knelt before [Jesus] and said, ‘Lord, if you are willing, you can make me clean.’
Jesus reached out his hand and touched the man. ‘I am willing’ he said. ‘Be clean!’ Immediately he was cured of his leprosy.” Matthew 8.2-3
God gave me the first scripture verse this morning. I decided to go on a prayer retreat. I figured this would be my last attempt at salvaging my relationship with Him. See, I am currently a shell of the woman I was three months ago. Three months ago I was in graduate school, I was deacon of Women’s Ministry at my church, and I taught a new believers class. I felt that spiritually, I was at the top of my game.
Apparently not. As you may or may not know, I had a stroke in December. I was in a coma for a length of time, and went through a long series of physical therapies to regain my strength.
And here is where the dilemma arose. When I returned to church, I started hearing phrases like, ‘Well here’s our walking miracle.’ And ‘This event really strengthened my faith.’ But I felt nothing. No walks in heaven when I was in the coma and no deep spiritual awakening when I woke up.
It took a very wise woman to say, ‘Maybe this wasn’t about you. Maybe God is working through you.’ Ouch. That had never occurred to me. Unfortunately, that revelation did not spark a renewed desire to speak to God, or to go into His word. I remained an island unto myself. I retreated into a corner to lick my wounds. To avoid spiritual small talk, I started ignoring people. I would walk into church with my head down.
God had effectively stripped away all the good things I was doing for Him. I had not even realized how all my thoughts and desires for God was stemming from my head and not my heart. Now I was naked with nothing to show for my efforts.
Now, back to today’s story. At the retreat, we gathered in a room to discuss the day’s plan. We would go somewhere where we could meet God in the stillness of ourselves. Scripture reading, journaling, even drawing was suggested methods of connecting with Him. As I was leaving the classroom to start my retreat, I heard ‘Matthew 7.11’ in my head. It was quite audible. I was convinced it was I doing the thinking, and I tried not to get my hopes up. I thought, ‘I’m sure it’s some passage like, ‘Jesus was out walking the streets.’
When I read the verse, the word ‘will’ spoke to my heart. Immediately I thought about will being a word to describe the action of willingness to do something. You have to be willing in order to give. Otherwise, it is forcing as the action. This passage tells me that God is willing to be an active force in my life. He has the natural tendency and the sufficiency to meet me right where I am. And He is extremely capable and persistent at pursuing me even when I avoid Him.
So, my next thought is, What am I willing to give Him in return? Can I really trust Him with my heart? Trust Him to take away all the hurts inflicted by those who abused me and those who were complacent abandoners? Am I willing to trust that He is right beside me every step of the way? Most importantly, can I be willing to hand over the pain so that He might seek vengeance for me? Can I dare take a chance to believe He will not be another one who has let me down?
The writer Henri Nouwen said, “Faith is the radical trust that home has always been there and always will be there.” Am I willing to abandon my service for my love?
“Restore to me the joy of your salvation and grant me a willing spirit, to sustain me.” Psalm 51.12
“If anyone is (willing) chooses to do God’s will, he will find out whether my teaching comes from God or whether I speak on my own.” John 7.17
And I finish for now with the word of the great Saint Augustine; “Understanding is the reward of faith…What is, ‘If any man be willing to do His will?’ It is the same thing as to believe.
Wednesday, November 29, 2006
A job application
This is how I used to read the help wanted ads:
“Wanted to fill immediate position: devout, perfect Christian for full-time service. Must be well kept in demeanor and stature. Must uphold ALL 10 Commandments and be able to recite them when asked. Should be able to quote scripture verses at any and all applicable situations. Would prefer candidate who is judgmental and critical; pious living is necessary.
The ideal candidate will have accumulated a lifetime of training in all things godly. Any tarnished history should be entirely removed. Mistakes or accidents will not be tolerated. Republican a plus. Please apply in person (wear your Sunday best!) at local churches in town.
It may appear as if I am exaggerating with the above statements; but I assure you, the exaggeration is minimal. Before I sold out my life to the Lord, I truly saw things this way. Because I was afraid of being exposed as a fraud, I have made some errors.
Because I was afraid of being lonely again, I decided to make it my mission to know as many people as possible at church. I did not want to be a loner or a loser in life any longer, so I became a politician instead.
Because I was afraid of failure, I decided to strive for perfection. I wanted everything to go perfectly in my life of service for the Lord, so I pushed myself to the brink of breakdown.
Because I was afraid of being called a phony, I became as involved as possible with ministries: many of them. I wanted to be validated as a Christian, so I spread myself as thin as possible.
Because I was afraid of losing God’s love, I tried to never sin. I wanted Him to love me, and when I failed at my attempts of a sinless life, I assumed I lost His love.
Because I was afraid of my past, I tried to figure out everything I was against. I wanted to set up safeguards to avoid temptation, so I prohibited everything and everyone who was not perfect and holy. In my opinion anyway.
Because I had made so many mistakes in my life before Christ, I tried to become pious and perfect. I wanted to change my life 180ยบ, so I became a hypocrite.
I did do some things right however:
Because I thought my story could help others, I decided to become completely transparent. If you think I am being too hard on myself, do not feel too badly for me. Today’s blog is still to help others. I know other people see Christians the way I described them in the help wanted ad. I want you to know that sometimes Christians seem uptight and judgmental because we are scared. We forget that we have all fallen short of the glory of God (see Romans 3.23) and we begin to think we have it all together. I am transparent in who I am and where I have been because for me, there is no other way to live.
How the real Help Wanted ad appears:
“…I am with you/to rescue and save you, declares the Lord. I will save you from the hands of the wicked and redeem you from the grasp of the cruel.” (Jeremiah 15.20.b-21)
“I said, ‘you are my servant’; I have chosen you and have not rejected you. So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.” (Isaiah 41.9-10)
“I tell you the truth; whoever hears my word and believes Him who sent me has eternal life and will not be condemned…” (Jesus in John 5.24)
“Whoever serves me must follow me; and where I am, my servant also will be. My Father will honor the one who serves me.” (Jesus in John 12.26)
“You did not choose me, but I chose you and appointed you to go and bear fruit-fruit that will last.” (Jesus in John 15.16)
It seems that this help wanted ad read differently than the one my head was telling me. The truth is that Jesus wants us exactly as we are. He made us, He knows us, and there are no surprises to Him. The most liberating part of this message is that God does not need us! I am not in a hurry to get myself cleaned up so I do not let Him down. Rather, I rest in Him; learning who He is and who I truly am in Him. And that is a job that lasts an eternity. Think about it.
This is how I used to read the help wanted ads:
“Wanted to fill immediate position: devout, perfect Christian for full-time service. Must be well kept in demeanor and stature. Must uphold ALL 10 Commandments and be able to recite them when asked. Should be able to quote scripture verses at any and all applicable situations. Would prefer candidate who is judgmental and critical; pious living is necessary.
The ideal candidate will have accumulated a lifetime of training in all things godly. Any tarnished history should be entirely removed. Mistakes or accidents will not be tolerated. Republican a plus. Please apply in person (wear your Sunday best!) at local churches in town.
It may appear as if I am exaggerating with the above statements; but I assure you, the exaggeration is minimal. Before I sold out my life to the Lord, I truly saw things this way. Because I was afraid of being exposed as a fraud, I have made some errors.
Because I was afraid of being lonely again, I decided to make it my mission to know as many people as possible at church. I did not want to be a loner or a loser in life any longer, so I became a politician instead.
Because I was afraid of failure, I decided to strive for perfection. I wanted everything to go perfectly in my life of service for the Lord, so I pushed myself to the brink of breakdown.
Because I was afraid of being called a phony, I became as involved as possible with ministries: many of them. I wanted to be validated as a Christian, so I spread myself as thin as possible.
Because I was afraid of losing God’s love, I tried to never sin. I wanted Him to love me, and when I failed at my attempts of a sinless life, I assumed I lost His love.
Because I was afraid of my past, I tried to figure out everything I was against. I wanted to set up safeguards to avoid temptation, so I prohibited everything and everyone who was not perfect and holy. In my opinion anyway.
Because I had made so many mistakes in my life before Christ, I tried to become pious and perfect. I wanted to change my life 180ยบ, so I became a hypocrite.
I did do some things right however:
Because I thought my story could help others, I decided to become completely transparent. If you think I am being too hard on myself, do not feel too badly for me. Today’s blog is still to help others. I know other people see Christians the way I described them in the help wanted ad. I want you to know that sometimes Christians seem uptight and judgmental because we are scared. We forget that we have all fallen short of the glory of God (see Romans 3.23) and we begin to think we have it all together. I am transparent in who I am and where I have been because for me, there is no other way to live.
How the real Help Wanted ad appears:
“…I am with you/to rescue and save you, declares the Lord. I will save you from the hands of the wicked and redeem you from the grasp of the cruel.” (Jeremiah 15.20.b-21)
“I said, ‘you are my servant’; I have chosen you and have not rejected you. So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.” (Isaiah 41.9-10)
“I tell you the truth; whoever hears my word and believes Him who sent me has eternal life and will not be condemned…” (Jesus in John 5.24)
“Whoever serves me must follow me; and where I am, my servant also will be. My Father will honor the one who serves me.” (Jesus in John 12.26)
“You did not choose me, but I chose you and appointed you to go and bear fruit-fruit that will last.” (Jesus in John 15.16)
It seems that this help wanted ad read differently than the one my head was telling me. The truth is that Jesus wants us exactly as we are. He made us, He knows us, and there are no surprises to Him. The most liberating part of this message is that God does not need us! I am not in a hurry to get myself cleaned up so I do not let Him down. Rather, I rest in Him; learning who He is and who I truly am in Him. And that is a job that lasts an eternity. Think about it.
Tuesday, November 07, 2006
unshaken
There is no time for songs this week brothers and sisters. Once again, a Christian has proved that the dark side can overcome good. I was watching a television show a little while ago. There was a debate of some sort; the man said the only group of people who are still a target for ridicule is the morbidly obese. The other man said, “No, you can still ridicule Christians too.” I wondered why he would have to say something like that, and then I realized he was right. And when scandals erupt, it only gets worse. So why would someone want to be a Christian anyway?
“…I’d say you’ll do best by filling your minds and meditating on things true, noble, reputable, authentic, compelling, gracious-the best, not the worst; the beautiful, not the ugly; things to praise, not things to curse….Do that, and God, who makes everything work together, will work you into his most excellent harmonies.” Philippians 4.8-9
I am a Christian because He saved me. It does not have to do with any preachers, any person. There is one thing that matters in the end; and that is the Cross. When I came to the Cross-, everything changed. Sure, being ridiculed hurts sometimes. My daughter told me today how hard it is in recess. She is in fourth grade, and most of the kids say ‘Oh my God,' and it bothers her. What can I tell her but to be strong?
I do not live this life for anyone else but Christ. I struggle with my thorns, do not get me wrong. I have to be aware that I carry the sin of pride. I need to be sure that my actions are for Jesus, not me. I strive more and more each day to die to myself.
What does that mean? “This resurrection life you received from God is not a timid, grave-tending life. It’s adventurously expectant, greeting God with a childlike ‘What’s next, Papa?’ God’s spirit touches our spirits and confirms who we really are. We know who He is, and we know who we are: Father and children. And we know we are going to get what’s coming to us-an unbelievable inheritance! We go through exactly what Christ goes through. If we go through the hard times with Him, then we’re certainly going to go through the good times with Him!” Romans 8.15-17
When I became the Lord’s I ditched my old way of living for His way of living. I remove myself from the driver’s seat (I sucked at driving this life anyway) and He is taking over. It may sound strange, but it is really a huge relief.
If you are living a life that is heavy to carry around; if the stress is gnawing at the back of your head, then you need to read my words and think about this: Christ wants to carry your burdens. He wants you to lay all your junk, all your crap, at the Cross and leave it there.
Read this and let the words touch your heart, as they are meant to do.
“Since we’ve compiled this long and sorry record as sinners and proved that we are utterly incapable of living the glorious lives God will for us, God did it for us. Out of sheer generosity He put us in right standing with Himself. A pure gift. He got us out of the mess we’re in and restored us to where he always wanted us to be. And He did it by means of Jesus Christ. Romans 3.23-24
See, this is not about any Christian who makes a mistake and sins. My faith is not shaken because people fall from grace. Your eyes need to be on the one who is in control. No, you never become a sinless person, that is impossible in this life. We will sin, it is inevitable. The decision then is to confess and keep right on going, with your eyes on the Cross. Do not pay any attention to what the world has to say about Christianity. He is real, He is in charge, and He does want you to love Him. More than that, He wants to love you. Even with all your mistakes, your scars, and your pain. Think about it.
There is no time for songs this week brothers and sisters. Once again, a Christian has proved that the dark side can overcome good. I was watching a television show a little while ago. There was a debate of some sort; the man said the only group of people who are still a target for ridicule is the morbidly obese. The other man said, “No, you can still ridicule Christians too.” I wondered why he would have to say something like that, and then I realized he was right. And when scandals erupt, it only gets worse. So why would someone want to be a Christian anyway?
“…I’d say you’ll do best by filling your minds and meditating on things true, noble, reputable, authentic, compelling, gracious-the best, not the worst; the beautiful, not the ugly; things to praise, not things to curse….Do that, and God, who makes everything work together, will work you into his most excellent harmonies.” Philippians 4.8-9
I am a Christian because He saved me. It does not have to do with any preachers, any person. There is one thing that matters in the end; and that is the Cross. When I came to the Cross-, everything changed. Sure, being ridiculed hurts sometimes. My daughter told me today how hard it is in recess. She is in fourth grade, and most of the kids say ‘Oh my God,' and it bothers her. What can I tell her but to be strong?
I do not live this life for anyone else but Christ. I struggle with my thorns, do not get me wrong. I have to be aware that I carry the sin of pride. I need to be sure that my actions are for Jesus, not me. I strive more and more each day to die to myself.
What does that mean? “This resurrection life you received from God is not a timid, grave-tending life. It’s adventurously expectant, greeting God with a childlike ‘What’s next, Papa?’ God’s spirit touches our spirits and confirms who we really are. We know who He is, and we know who we are: Father and children. And we know we are going to get what’s coming to us-an unbelievable inheritance! We go through exactly what Christ goes through. If we go through the hard times with Him, then we’re certainly going to go through the good times with Him!” Romans 8.15-17
When I became the Lord’s I ditched my old way of living for His way of living. I remove myself from the driver’s seat (I sucked at driving this life anyway) and He is taking over. It may sound strange, but it is really a huge relief.
If you are living a life that is heavy to carry around; if the stress is gnawing at the back of your head, then you need to read my words and think about this: Christ wants to carry your burdens. He wants you to lay all your junk, all your crap, at the Cross and leave it there.
Read this and let the words touch your heart, as they are meant to do.
“Since we’ve compiled this long and sorry record as sinners and proved that we are utterly incapable of living the glorious lives God will for us, God did it for us. Out of sheer generosity He put us in right standing with Himself. A pure gift. He got us out of the mess we’re in and restored us to where he always wanted us to be. And He did it by means of Jesus Christ. Romans 3.23-24
See, this is not about any Christian who makes a mistake and sins. My faith is not shaken because people fall from grace. Your eyes need to be on the one who is in control. No, you never become a sinless person, that is impossible in this life. We will sin, it is inevitable. The decision then is to confess and keep right on going, with your eyes on the Cross. Do not pay any attention to what the world has to say about Christianity. He is real, He is in charge, and He does want you to love Him. More than that, He wants to love you. Even with all your mistakes, your scars, and your pain. Think about it.
Thursday, November 02, 2006
Chris Tomlin - Indescribable
From the album Arriving
From the highest of heights to the depths of the sea,
Creation's revealing Your majesty.
From the colors of fall to the fragrance of spring,
Every creature unique in the song that it sings. All exclaiming...
(Chorus)
Indescribable, Uncontainable,
You placed the stars in the sky and You know them by name.
You are amazing God.
All powerful, Untamable,
Awestruck we fall to our knees and we humbly proclaim,
You are amazing God.
Who has told every lightning bolt where it should go,
Or seen heavenly storehouses laden with snow?
Who imagined the sun and gives source to its light,
Yet conceals it to give us the coolness of night?
None can fathom...
(Chorus)
Incomparable, Unchangeable,
You see the depths of my heart and You love me the same.
You are amazing God.
“Happy Birthday to you,
Happy Birthday to you,
Happy Birthday dear Lisa,
Happy Birthday to you.”
Last Monday was my birthday. We will not go into the age I turned. I like to tell people it is my birthday. It’s actually quite amazing how I can work it into almost any conversation. I love hearing “Happy Birthday” and I guess I like to get gifts too.
My kids made me cards for my birthday. They included a dollar in each card and refused to take it back. I thought that was precious. I guess we must be doing something right with those kids. They have Jesus in their hearts, and they are becoming givers rather than receivers. I am blessed just to be in their presence.
See, my children are a present from God. He decided we could take care of them, and He wrote them into our lives. I am saddened for the days my children spent without hearing of Jesus, but I have to let that go. God knew that would happen. “All the days ordained for me were written in your book before one of them came to be.” (Psalm 139.16)
This leads me to my thought for today. Why do I make my birthday such a big deal? Why do I want everyone to know so they can celebrate with me? Hold on; I have a theory!
I think we are born with an inner knowledge of God. I believe I am excited about the day I was born because God is excited about the day I was born! As a matter of fact, He says it in His word. Look- “The Lord you God is with you, He is mighty to save. He will take great delight in you, He will quiet you with His love, He will rejoice over you with singing.” (Zephaniah 3.17)
Here’s another one: “Fear not, for I have redeemed you; I have summoned you by name; you are mine.” (Isaiah 43.1) It’s cool when you think about it. You have to believe that God is telling the truth and that He really does know you. Individually. He is madly in love with you, and there is no sin or no faults that can stop Him from loving you. “Since you are precious and honored in my sight, and because I love you, I will give me in exchange for you, and people in exchange for you life. Do not be afraid for I am with you.” God in Isaiah 43.4-5)
Who says that and doesn’t mean it? It gives me reason to explore further. And when I do, I find Jesus, dying for the world. Dying to give the people on earth the choice to live forever. “My [children] listen to my voice; I know them, and they follow me. I give them eternal life, and they shall never perish; no one can snatch them out of my hand.” –Jesus in John 10.27-28
I have always enjoyed my birthday and I like other people to share in my joy. I know that my joy comes from God. He finds delight with me; why would he not celebrate my birthday too?
And just think; he celebrates your birthday too. think about it.
From the album Arriving
From the highest of heights to the depths of the sea,
Creation's revealing Your majesty.
From the colors of fall to the fragrance of spring,
Every creature unique in the song that it sings. All exclaiming...
(Chorus)
Indescribable, Uncontainable,
You placed the stars in the sky and You know them by name.
You are amazing God.
All powerful, Untamable,
Awestruck we fall to our knees and we humbly proclaim,
You are amazing God.
Who has told every lightning bolt where it should go,
Or seen heavenly storehouses laden with snow?
Who imagined the sun and gives source to its light,
Yet conceals it to give us the coolness of night?
None can fathom...
(Chorus)
Incomparable, Unchangeable,
You see the depths of my heart and You love me the same.
You are amazing God.
“Happy Birthday to you,
Happy Birthday to you,
Happy Birthday dear Lisa,
Happy Birthday to you.”
Last Monday was my birthday. We will not go into the age I turned. I like to tell people it is my birthday. It’s actually quite amazing how I can work it into almost any conversation. I love hearing “Happy Birthday” and I guess I like to get gifts too.
My kids made me cards for my birthday. They included a dollar in each card and refused to take it back. I thought that was precious. I guess we must be doing something right with those kids. They have Jesus in their hearts, and they are becoming givers rather than receivers. I am blessed just to be in their presence.
See, my children are a present from God. He decided we could take care of them, and He wrote them into our lives. I am saddened for the days my children spent without hearing of Jesus, but I have to let that go. God knew that would happen. “All the days ordained for me were written in your book before one of them came to be.” (Psalm 139.16)
This leads me to my thought for today. Why do I make my birthday such a big deal? Why do I want everyone to know so they can celebrate with me? Hold on; I have a theory!
I think we are born with an inner knowledge of God. I believe I am excited about the day I was born because God is excited about the day I was born! As a matter of fact, He says it in His word. Look- “The Lord you God is with you, He is mighty to save. He will take great delight in you, He will quiet you with His love, He will rejoice over you with singing.” (Zephaniah 3.17)
Here’s another one: “Fear not, for I have redeemed you; I have summoned you by name; you are mine.” (Isaiah 43.1) It’s cool when you think about it. You have to believe that God is telling the truth and that He really does know you. Individually. He is madly in love with you, and there is no sin or no faults that can stop Him from loving you. “Since you are precious and honored in my sight, and because I love you, I will give me in exchange for you, and people in exchange for you life. Do not be afraid for I am with you.” God in Isaiah 43.4-5)
Who says that and doesn’t mean it? It gives me reason to explore further. And when I do, I find Jesus, dying for the world. Dying to give the people on earth the choice to live forever. “My [children] listen to my voice; I know them, and they follow me. I give them eternal life, and they shall never perish; no one can snatch them out of my hand.” –Jesus in John 10.27-28
I have always enjoyed my birthday and I like other people to share in my joy. I know that my joy comes from God. He finds delight with me; why would he not celebrate my birthday too?
And just think; he celebrates your birthday too. think about it.
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